GRAND RAPIDS, MI. – The Grand Rapids Griffins will open the home portion of their 2012-13 schedule on Friday, Oct. 12, at Van Andel Arena, one of six home dates that have been confirmed by the American Hockey League.

The Griffins will also host their 16th annual New Year’s Eve game on Monday, Dec. 31, the day after the Dec. 30 outdoor game between Grand Rapids and the Toronto Marlies at Comerica Park, in what will mark the team’s first Monday home game since Dec. 31, 2007.

Other home dates include Saturday games on Dec. 1 and Jan. 12, and a Friday game on Jan. 25.

Opponents and start times will be announced later this summer, when the complete schedule for the AHL’s 77th season is released. It will mark the Griffins’ 12th year of AHL membership and 17th season overall.

More information on the Griffins is available at their website or call the Griffins office at (616) 774-4585.